Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department Firefighter Matt Young learned Thursday that he obtained his certification from the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency as a Hazardous Materials Specialist.

He is currently the only employee at the department to receive this certification.

Becoming a certified TEMA Hazardous Materials Specialist is a lengthy process; Young had to complete the following requirements:

Certification as a TEMA Hazardous Materials Technician

80-hour Chemistry for Emergency Response Course Certification

80-hour Hazardous Materials Operating Site Practices Course Certification

32-hour Radiological/Nuclear Hazardous Materials Technician Certification

“This accomplishment shows Young’s dedication to this department and his willingness to continue his education in various aspects of the fire service,” said Training Coordinator Billy Vinson. Vinson went on to say, “This also signifies that he is respected by TEMA as an individual that has acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to educate others on this subject matter.”